About three years ago, the College of Business began exploring ways to help underrepresented and low-income students obtain highly recognized experiential opportunities throughout their college years. Denita Gadson, an academic advisor who oversees the College’s student diversity initiatives, had noticed that some students weren’t going on study abroad trips or even joining clubs because of financial barriers. 

Thanks to funds from sponsor AEGON/Transamerica, UNI Business is helping. This past fall, the College  launched a new fund called the  Professional Distinction Access Fund for students from a historically underrepresented ethnic or racial minority group or with exceptional financial need as identified by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). “The premise is what can we do to remove barriers,” Gadson said. “And a lack of money is a huge barrier for some of our students. A financial barrier prevents students from joining an organization, a business club, or taking part in a competition, where they would have to come up with some out-of-pocket money.”  

Eligible expenses include those relating to a student’s professional development that are not covered by scholarships or financial aid. These expenses could include:

• Certification exam fees
• Student organization dues
• Passport fees (for study abroad participation)
• Competition or conference registration fees

Gadson expressed her thanks to AEGON/Transamerica for stepping up to the plate to make this happen. 

“That was exceptional, and it says a lot about corporations that are willing to invest in students and who see the importance of diversity, inclusion and equity,” Gadson said. “It also says a lot about them being forward-thinking and making sure they’re not missing excellent potential employees. Essentially, high impact experiences provide students a competitive advantage over their peers who do not have such experiences.” 

To apply, head to this website and fill out the form. You can contact Katie Hillyer at katie.hillyer@uni.edu with any questions. There is no deadline to apply;  each student will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

“We know that businesses want students who have those global experiences, and so this is a way that we’re able to do that,” Gadson said.